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Peppermint Sugar Cookie Bars Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 84 reviews
  • Author: Harry
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 16 bars (cut into 4x4 grid) 1x

Description

These Peppermint Sugar Cookie Bars are a festive and delicious treat perfect for the holiday season. Soft, buttery sugar cookie bars are baked to golden perfection, generously studded with crushed peppermint candies for a refreshing crunch. Topped with a smooth, creamy peppermint-infused frosting and finished with a sprinkle of crushed peppermints, these bars bring together classic holiday flavors in an easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing dessert.

Ingredients

Scale

Cookie Bars

  • 3/4 cup sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 egg
  • 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup crushed peppermints

Peppermint Frosting

  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
  • 1 tsp peppermint extract
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 tbsp milk
  • 1/4 cup crushed peppermints

Instructions

  1. Prepare the baking dish: Line a 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving ends hanging over the sides to lift the bars out easily. Spray parchment lightly with non-stick cooking spray. Preheat oven to 350°F.
  2. Beat wet ingredients: In a large bowl, combine 3/4 cup sugar and 1/2 cup softened butter. Using a hand mixer, beat until the mixture is light and fluffy. Add 1 tsp vanilla extract and 1 egg, then beat again until fully incorporated.
  3. Add dry ingredients and flour: Mix 1 tsp baking powder, 1/4 tsp salt, and half of the flour (7/8 cups) into the butter mixture. Beat to combine. Gradually add the remaining flour and continue mixing until a batter forms.
  4. Incorporate crushed peppermints: Fold in 1/2 cup crushed peppermints into the batter, ensuring even distribution.
  5. Spread batter in dish: Pour batter into the prepared baking dish, scraping down the sides of the bowl. Use a spatula or clean fingers to spread the batter evenly. Press gently if the batter is thick.
  6. Bake the bars: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the bars cool completely in the dish.
  7. Make the frosting: In a medium bowl, combine 2 cups powdered sugar, 1/2 cup softened butter, 1 tsp peppermint extract, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and 2 tbsp milk. Beat using a hand mixer until smooth and fluffy.
  8. Frost the cooled bars: Once bars are fully cooled, lift them out using the parchment paper. Spread the peppermint frosting evenly over the top.
  9. Decorate with crushed peppermints: Sprinkle 1/4 cup crushed peppermints evenly over the frosting. Refrigerate the bars for about 10 minutes to allow the frosting to firm up.
  10. Slice and serve: After the frosting is set, cut the bars into squares. Serve and enjoy the festive peppermint flavor!

Notes

  • Ensure butter is softened to room temperature for easier mixing.
  • Press the batter evenly in the pan to ensure uniform baking.
  • You can adjust the amount of crushed peppermints if you prefer a milder or stronger peppermint flavor.
  • Store bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
  • Optional: Add a pinch of red food coloring in the frosting for a more festive look.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Keywords: peppermint sugar cookie bars, holiday dessert, peppermint cookies, sugar cookie bars, peppermint frosting

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Find it online: https://dishesbyharry.com/peppermint-sugar-cookie-bars-recipe/